Phentermine is an appetite suppressant designed to help obese patients lose weight. This medication is generally taken by individuals whose weight poses health problems and puts them at greater medical risk. Risk factors may include: diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.



Usually prescribed for short-term use (maximum 12 weeks), it is recommended that the drug be combined with other non-medicinal types of treatment such as behavioural modification, exercise, and a healthy diet.

How it works

Phentermine works by releasing certain chemicals into the brain, which alter the neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) affecting appetite. It essentially prevents the hunger message from reaching the brain.

When to avoid using Phetermine

Phentermine should never be taken alongside other diet medications like fenfluramine (Phen-Fen) or dexfenfluramine (Redux). This could evoke a rare but fatal lung disorder called pulmonary hypertension.

Other serious side effects that may ensue from these sorts of drug combinations include: high blood pressure, elevated body temperature, slow heart rate, or severe headache.

Phentermine should also be avoided if you have taken an MAO inhibitor within the past 14 days, as this can cause potentially life-threatening side effects. Examples of MAO inhibitors are: phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), isocarboxazid (Marplan), or rasagiline (Azilect).

Individuals already suffering from particular health conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, arteriosclerosis, glaucoma, and overactive thyroid should not use Phentermine.

In any case, you should always consult with a doctor before engaging in the use of this drug. Your physician should be made aware of your medical history, including any drug allergies, anxiety disorder, drug or alcohol abuse, epilepsy or seizure disorder, or diabetes. If you suffer from any of these conditions, your doctor will not prescribe you Phentermine.

You must also tell your doctor about all other medications you are already taking.

How to take Phentermine

This medication should be taken only as prescribed ? you should not increase the dosage or the frequency of intake of your own volition.

Phentermine is an oral medication that should be taken with a full glass of water and swallowed whole as opposed to breaking or crushing it. It is generally recommended to take it on an empty stomach before eating breakfast. It should definitely be taken at least 10 hours before going to bed as it may otherwise cause sleep problems.

If you miss a dose, you should take it as soon as you remember. If it is already close to the time of your next dose, then just skip the missed dose and only take the next one. Never take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdosing on phentermine can be fatal.

Phentermine dependency

Those taking Phentermine over long periods of time may develop a drug dependency. When you suddenly stop taking the drug, it is possible to experience withdrawal symptoms like depression and extreme fatigue. This is why you should always consult a doctor before ceasing treatment. In some cases, you may have to slowly reduce your dosage in order to wean yourself safely off of the medication.

Phentermine side effects

It is possible to be allergic to Phentermine, in which case you may react to the drug by having difficulties breathing, breaking out in hives, or having swelling in the face, lips or tongue. If you have an allergic reaction, immediately contact your doctor.

Other serious side effects may include: feeling restless or confused, irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, chest pain, or fainting.

More common side effects include: dizziness, headache, dry mouth, itching, or trouble sleeping.

Always talk to your doctor if you are concerned with the way that you are reacting to your medication.